Meet the Team - Sam

I learned cello and violin growing up in Ohio, in the United States. I went for my Bachelors of Music at Baldwin Wallace University and Conservatory of Music in Cleveland, Ohio and then my Masters of Music at the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama in Cardiff. I love playing in orchestra, quartet, with piano and on my own. I am teaching violin and cello at Forte. I love teaching to figure out how my student's minds work, seeing them succeed and discover, and getting to know them.  

What’s your favourite composer?
My favourite composer is Henri Dutilleux. He is a 20th century composer who composed a lot of contemporary classical music. He is not as well-known as Beethoven, but I love the colours that can be found in his music. He wrote an amazing solo cello piece called Trois Strophes sur le Nom de Sacher.

Who’s been the biggest musical influence in your life so far?
My biggest influence has been my cello teacher at the Royal Welsh College, Nikki Thomas. She really taught me how to listen.

What’s your favourite piece of music?
My favourite piece is Louis Vierne's Piano Quintet. It is so lush!  Have a listen, you're in for a treat.

What style of music do you relax to?
I love relaxing to classical music, something slow such as Rachmaninov. 

Who’s your favourite performer?
My favourite cellist is Truls Mork. His sound is incredible, and he has an amazing attention to detail.